Photo : Rijasolo, AFP
NIAS Area Studies
AFRICA MONITOR
Photo : Rijasolo, AFP
IN BRIEF
By Narmatha S
Madagascar: Incumbent president wins the elections for a third term
On 25 November, BBC Africa reported that Madagascar’s incumbent President, Andry Rajoelina, won the elections for a third term. The country witnessed a disputed election boycotted by the opposition party who claimed that they would not recognise the election's outcome. Andry secured 59 per cent of the vote against his main opponent Marc Ravalomanana. The presidential candidates called for a poll boycott because of a low voter turnout. The voter turnout was 46 per cent which is the lowest recorded ever in the country. On 16 November, multiple clashes with police resulted in a curfew on the evening of election day. (“Madagascar president re-elected amid boycott,” BBC, 25 November 2023)
Morocco: Alliance with the EU to tackle extremism
On 24 November, the EU and Morocco launched an initiative against extremism through educational means. It is a two-year initiative aimed at countering and preventing violent extremism. In the 21st Global Counterterrorism Forum (GCTF), Morocco’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nasser Bourita, stated that the program's primary goal is to “provide individuals with access to education and to help them develop the capacities necessary to challenge extremist narratives and promote peace.” The EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Joseph Borell, asserted that “the program aims to help develop societies that are more tolerant and resilient against terrorism and violent extremism.” (“Morocco and EU Launch Alliance to Tackle Extremism through Education,” Morocco World News, 24 November 2023)